How long does it take to get a CDL?

CDL training programs typically take 3-8 weeks for full-time students. Part-time programs may take 3-6 months. The exact duration depends on the type of CDL (Class A, B, or C) and the training school.

What is ELDT certification?

Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) is a federal requirement since February 2022. All new CDL applicants must complete training from an FMCSA-registered provider before taking the CDL skills test.

How much does CDL school cost in 2026?

CDL training costs typically range from $3,000 to $10,000 for private schools in 2026. Company-sponsored programs may offer free training in exchange for a work commitment. Financial aid, WIOA grants, and VA benefits can help cover costs.

Can I get paid while training for my CDL?

Yes, many trucking companies offer paid CDL training programs where you earn a salary while learning. These programs typically require a 1-2 year employment commitment after graduation.

What is the difference between Class A and Class B CDL?

A Class A CDL allows you to drive combination vehicles (tractor-trailers) over 26,001 lbs with a towed vehicle over 10,000 lbs. A Class B CDL covers single vehicles over 26,001 lbs like buses, dump trucks, and delivery trucks. Class A offers more job opportunities and typically higher pay.

How do I verify if a CDL school is legitimate?

Verify the school is registered with the FMCSA Training Provider Registry (TPR). All legitimate ELDT providers must be listed. Use our Scam Checker tool to verify schools against the federal registry and check for complaints.

Do CDL schools provide certification?

Yes, accredited CDL training schools prepare students for their commercial driver license (CDL) certification exam. After completing an ELDT-approved program, students are eligible to take the CDL skills test at their state DMV. CDL Schools USA lists only FMCSA-verified schools that meet federal certification training standards.

What is the difference between CDL certification and CDL training?

CDL training refers to the hands-on instruction and classroom education provided by truck driving schools. CDL certification is the official credential you receive after passing your state CDL skills test. Accredited CDL training programs prepare you for certification by covering required ELDT theory and behind-the-wheel hours.

What is ELDT certification?

Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) is a federal requirement since February 2022. All new CDL applicants must complete training from an FMCSA-registered provider.

How much does CDL training cost in Lewiston, ID?

CDL training in Lewiston, ID typically costs between $3,000 and $8,000, with an average of $5,000. Costs vary based on program type (private school vs. community college), training length, and included endorsements like Hazmat or Tanker.

How long does it take to get a CDL in Lewiston?

Most CDL training programs in Lewiston take 3-8 weeks for full-time students. Community college programs may take 8-16 weeks. Part-time and weekend programs are available for working adults and may extend the timeline. After training, you must pass the CDL skills test at your state DMV.

Are there weekend CDL classes in Lewiston, ID?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Lewiston area offer weekend and evening classes for students who cannot attend full-time programs. These flexible schedules allow working adults to earn their CDL without quitting their current job.

How do I verify a CDL school in Lewiston is legitimate?

All legitimate CDL schools must be registered in the FMCSA Training Provider Registry (TPR) at tpr.fmcsa.dot.gov. You can verify any school's ELDT certification status there. Be wary of schools that cannot provide their TPR registration number or promise a CDL in less than 2 weeks.

CDL Schools USA is an independent directory that lists and verifies FMCSA-registered commercial driver's license (CDL) training providers across the United States. This page contains 26 verified training programs serving the Lewiston, Idaho area.

FMCSA VERIFIED 2025

CDL Schools in Lewiston, ID

Are you looking for commercial driver training in Lewiston?We have identified 26 FMCSA-verified programs serving the Lewiston area (Pop: 34,186).

Quick Stats

26 Training Programs

ELDT Compliant

3-8 Week Programs

Pop: 34,186

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Lewiston, ID

CDL License Types

Class A, Class B, Class C

Average Training Cost

$3,000 – $8,000

Program Length

3-8 weeks

Weekend / Evening Options

Available at select schools

FMCSA Registration Required

Yes

Verified Schools

26 CDL Schools Near Lewiston

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Top Picks in Lewiston

Editor's Choice

#1 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Clarkston School District

Clarkston, WA

Call Now

#2 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Leading Edge Aviation LLC

Clarkston, WA

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#3 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Dayton, WA

46.2 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

CDL Training in Lewiston, Idaho

<div class="space-y-4"> Lewiston, ID offers 26 FMCSA-verified CDL training programs for aspiring commercial drivers in 2026. Whether you're seeking a Class A CDL for tractor-trailer operation or a Class B CDL for straight trucks, the programs below are all registered in the federal Training Provider Registry (TPR)—the only database that counts for ELDT certification. CDL drivers in ID earn competitive salaries with strong job security. The national driver shortage continues to push starting pay higher, with many carriers offering signing bonuses of $5,000-$15,000 for new CDL holders. Training typically takes 4-8 weeks for full-time students, with weekend and evening options available at select Lewiston schools. Compare tuition costs, program length, and specializations below. Look for schools that offer hazmat endorsement training, tanker certification, and job placement assistance—these add immediate earning potential to your CDL. Read our guide on <a href="/blog/is-cdl-school-worth-it-2026" class="text-blue-600 hover:underline">whether CDL school is worth it in 2026</a> for a detailed cost-benefit analysis. </div>

Why Get CDL Training Near Lewiston?

Local Training: Train close to home with familiar roads and traffic patterns
Job Placement: Many local trucking companies hire graduates directly
Financial Aid: Schools in Idaho often qualify for WIOA grants and veteran benefits
ELDT Compliance: All listed schools meet federal ELDT requirements effective February 2022

CDL Training Costs in Idaho

CDL training in Idaho typically ranges from $3,000 to $8,000 for private schools, with community colleges offering programs from $2,000 to $5,000. Many trucking companies also offer paid CDL training programs with a 1-2 year employment commitment.

View all CDL schools in Idaho

Trucking Jobs Near Lewiston

Get hired after you complete your CDL training

$45,000 - $75,000

Average annual salary for CDL drivers in Idaho

2,500+

Open trucking positions in Idaho

Top employers hiring near Lewiston: Amazon, Walmart, UPS, FedEx, Werner Enterprises, Schneider National, Swift Transportation, and regional carriers.

Job types available: Local delivery, regional routes, OTR (Over-the-Road), dedicated routes, tanker, flatbed, and refrigerated transport.

Browse CDL Jobs Get Paid to Train

Compare CDL Schools in Lewiston

Side-by-side comparison of top training programs

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Showing 15 schools

School Name	City	Program Types	Key Features	Contact
ALDA AG INC FMCSA Verified	Colfax	Class AClass BTanker	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details
City of Dayton FMCSA Verified	Dayton	Class ATanker	Manual Trans.Evening Classes	View Details
Clarkston School District FMCSA Verified	Clarkston	Class AClass BTanker	VA Approved	View Details
Columbia County Public Transportation FMCSA Verified	Dayton	Class AClass BHazmat	Manual Trans.VA Approved	View Details
Columbia County Public Works FMCSA Verified	Dayton	Class AHazmat	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details
Cottonwood Joint School District #242 FMCSA Verified	Cottonwood	Class AClass B	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Craigmont - Harlow's School Bus Service, Inc of Montana FMCSA Verified	Craigmont	Class AClass B	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details
Dayton School District FMCSA Verified	Dayton	Class AHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.	View Details
Debco Construction FMCSA Verified	Orofino	Class AHazmat	Manual Trans.Evening Classes	View Details
Garfield/Palouse School District FMCSA Verified	Palouse	Class AHazmat	Manual Trans.Evening Classes	View Details
Genesee School District FMCSA Verified	Genesee	Class AHazmat	Manual Trans.VA Approved	View Details
Lapwai School Dist 341 FMCSA Verified	Lapwai	Class ATanker	Weekend Classes	View Details
Latah County highways and public roads FMCSA Verified	Potlatch	Class AHazmat	Manual Trans.Evening Classes	View Details
Leading Edge Aviation LLC FMCSA Verified	Clarkston	Class AClass BHazmat	Manual Trans.VA Approved	View Details
M.A. DeAtley Construction, Inc FMCSA Verified	Clarkston	Class AClass B	Manual Trans.Evening Classes	View Details

Tuition Costs in Lewiston

Avg. Private School

$5,400

Avg. Public School

$3,400

Price Range

$3,000 - $6,800

Boise area growing rapidly.

Nearby Cities

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CDL Testing & DMV in Lewiston

31 Mollison Way, Lewiston, ME 04240

(207) 753-9100

Schedule your CDL knowledge and road tests at the Lewiston BMV. CDL testing

Visit Lewiston CDL DMV

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Lewiston

How long does CDL training take in Lewiston?

CDL training programs in Lewiston, ID typically take 3-8 weeks for full-time students. Part-time programs may take 3-6 months. Company-sponsored programs often run 4-6 weeks with guaranteed job placement upon completion.

How much does CDL school cost in Idaho?

CDL training costs in Idaho range from $3,000-$10,000 for private schools, $1,500-$5,000 at community colleges, and FREE through company-sponsored programs (with employment commitment). Many schools accept WIOA grants, GI Bill benefits, and offer payment plans.

Can I get a CDL in Lewiston without quitting my job?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Lewiston area offer weekend and evening classes for working adults. These flexible schedules allow you to earn your CDL while keeping your current job. Weekend programs typically take 8-16 weeks to complete.

How do I know if a CDL school in Lewiston is legitimate?

All legitimate CDL schools must be registered in the FMCSA Training Provider Registry (TPR) at tpr.fmcsa.dot.gov. You can verify any school there. Be wary of schools that promise a CDL in less than 2 weeks or cannot provide their TPR registration number. The FMCSA removed over 550 non-compliant providers in 2025-2026 alone.

Do I need ELDT training to get a CDL?

Yes, as of February 2022, all first-time CDL applicants must complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) from an FMCSA-registered training provider before taking the CDL skills test. All schools listed on CDL Schools USA are ELDT-compliant. The ELDT requirement includes both theory instruction (30+ hours) and behind-the-wheel training.

Can I get financial aid for CDL school in Idaho?

Yes, several funding options exist for CDL training in Idaho: WIOA (Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act) grants, Pell Grants at eligible community colleges, VA benefits for veterans, and company-sponsored training programs. Contact individual schools to learn about their specific financial aid options.

What is the job outlook for CDL drivers near Lewiston?

The CDL driver job outlook near Lewiston, ID is strong. The American Trucking Associations reports a shortage of 80,000+ drivers nationally, with Idaho experiencing above-average demand. Starting salaries for new CDL graduates typically range from $45,000-$55,000, with experienced drivers earning $65,000-$80,000. Many carriers offer signing bonuses of $5,000-$15,000 for qualified CDL holders.

Should I get a Class A or Class B CDL in Lewiston?

The choice depends on your career goals. A Class A CDL allows you to drive any commercial vehicle including tractor-trailers (18-wheelers)—this opens the most job opportunities and highest pay. A Class B CDL limits you to straight trucks, buses, and dump trucks but is sufficient for local delivery, waste management, and transit jobs. Most Lewiston CDL schools offer both options. If unsure, get the Class A—it qualifies you for Class B jobs too.

This page lists FMCSA-verified CDL schools in Idaho, including training programs in Lewiston and surrounding cities. All listed programs meet Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) requirements.

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Essential Reading for CDL Students

Expert guides to help you start your trucking career in Idaho

📋

Guide

CDL Schools in Lewiston, ID

Quick Stats

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Lewiston, ID

26 CDL Schools Near Lewiston

Top Picks in Lewiston

Clarkston School District

Leading Edge Aviation LLC

ROW Adventures

Clarkston School District

Leading Edge Aviation LLC

ROW Adventures

M.A. DeAtley Construction, Inc

Pratt Moving and Storge INC.

Troy School District #287

Craigmont - Harlow's School Bus Service, Inc of Montana

ALDA AG INC

USDA Forest Service/Nez Perce-Clearwater NF

Garfield/Palouse School District

Simons Farms, LLC

Latah County highways and public roads

Potlatch School District Bus Garage

Princeton Church of the Nazarene

Orofino Joint School District # 171

Debco Construction

Cottonwood Joint School District #242

Dayton School District

CDL Training in Lewiston, Idaho

Why Get CDL Training Near Lewiston?

CDL Training Costs in Idaho

Trucking Jobs Near Lewiston

Compare CDL Schools in Lewiston

Tuition Costs in Lewiston

Nearby Cities

Need Help Choosing?

More in Idaho

CDL Testing & DMV in Lewiston

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Lewiston

Essential Reading for CDL Students

How to Get Your CDL in 2026: Complete Step-by-Step Guide

CDL First Year Salary 2026: The Reality Check

How to Pay for CDL School (7 Options)

WIOA Grants: Free CDL Training for Unemployed

CDL School Scams to Avoid in 2026

Can You Get a CDL in 2 Weeks? Fast Track Guide

The Truth About "Free" Company-Sponsored CDL Training

Why Students Fail the CDL Road Test (And How to Pass)

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